Proven to increase production of ceramides and fatty acids, two key
components of your skin's outer protective barrier. "As that barrier is
strengthened, skin is better able to keep moisture in and irritants out
-- making B3 a great ingredient if your complexion is dry or sensitive,"
says Leslie S. Baumann, MD, director of the University of Miami
Cosmetic Medicine and Research Institute. In one study, a moisturizer
with niacinamide improved the flushing and blushing of rosacea, a common
condition that can worsen with age. Another B3 skin care benefit: It
inhibits the transfer of pigment to skin cells, minimizing dark spots.
How to use For maximum results, apply B3 vitamins in the morning and
evening. To reduce irritation from your retinoid, use it in conjunction
with niacinamide. "Mix them together in the palm of your hand before
applying--they won't inactivate each other," says Baumann. Besides
decreasing side effects, the combo produces superior anti-aging
benefits.
Try La Roche-Posay Rosaliac Anti-Redness Moisturizer ($30; CVS) or Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream ($25; drugstores).
Please note: Retina specialists at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai (NYEE) have shown that severe vision loss from a self-prescribed high dose of over-the-counter niacin is linked to injury of a specific cell type in a patient’s eye. The experts report that discontinuing the vitamin led to reversal of the condition and have published their findings in the fall issue of Journal of VitreoRetinal Diseases.
Niacinamide has so many benefits for the skin. Your skin care specialist or derm may recommend that you incorporate niacinamide into your skin care routine because it is known to do the following:
1. Acts As an Antioxidant
According to the NCBI, this is the most well-studied anti-aging effect of niacinamide. The vitamin can help increase the antioxidant capacity of the skin after just one topical application, depending on the concentration of the ingredient and type of product.
2. Helps Support the Skin’s Moisture Barrier
Niacinamide has been known to increase two elements that make the skin barrier thicker and aid in its water retention.
3. Helps Improve the Look of Dark Spots
Clinical studies have shown that niacinamide helps decrease the appearance of dark spots on the surface of the skin. Some studies have shown that even just a five percent formulation of topical niacinamide can help fade dark spots, resulting in a brightening and evening of skin tone.
4. Helps Reduce the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Niacinamide has also been shown to improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles — two signs of aging associated with the decline in skin’s collagen as we get older.
5. Improves the Look of Skin Discoloration and Uneven Skin Tone
If you’re looking to improve visible redness due to dryness and blotchiness or decrease skin yellowness, reach for topical niacinamide.
